Claudia’s Corner: Living in an authentic home

Sunday

Apr 15, 2018 at 2:01 AMApr 16, 2018 at 3:21 PM

The authentic home is your own home that reflects your personality and lifestyle. It not only functions, but also looks and feels good. If there is a room that is not being used, try to figure out why. If no one uses the family room because it feels uncomfortable, that’s not an authentic room.

Simple changes can transform a space. It’s all in the details. The right color, whether a new paint color on the wall or new accent pieces, can refresh a space. Sometimes all that is need is editing, de-cluttering, rearranging furniture and a few new decorative accessories, your home can be an authentic home.

Change is good

It doesn’t happen often, but occasionally I have worked with clients who object to any type of change. They think they want change, they ask for help, they are not happy with the way the home looks; yet every suggestion is an objection. Some fear change and are so used to how their homes are, they can’t see past it. It is difficult to be objective but they know something is off.

If one is selling and objects to removing a chair that may be blocking an architectural feature or rearranging furniture placement for better flow in a room, the homeowner is too attached to the house and will have a hard time letting it go.

The kitchen

A very common question with is how to update their kitchen without remodeling. When preparing a home for sale, whatever you do to improve your home in any way, shape or form will increase the value of the home. Something is better than nothing.

As far as kitchens, remodeling can be quite costly. Upgrading a few key components can improve the look for less. Consider painting cabinets; replace knobs, hardware, faucets and lighting. Take down wallpaper and refresh with paint.

One size does not fit all

In my classes, I discuss the before and after process of room transformations. Whether selling or dwelling, the tasks are similar but the difference is when selling, you are appealing to the target market of buyers and for dwelling, it is for the homeowner. A staged room photographs well and showcases the architectural features of the home. It also drives potential buyers to view the house.

My best advice is to create an authentic home to enjoy while living in it. Don’t wait for the staging transformation to get your house to look good to sell. Be authentic with it now. Change is good and it will give you a better product for when you are ready to sell.

Claudia Jacobs is a professional stager and owner of Claudia Jacobs Designs in Goshen. Visit claudiajacobsdesigns.com or call 845-294-8993. Send questions and photos to ClaudiaJacobsDesigns@gmail.com.

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.